KU Law Traditions
Overview
For more than 145 years, generations of Jayhawk lawyers have created traditions that are an integral part of the KU Law experience.
Graduation
Law school graduation is a joyous weekend for graduates, faculty, families and friends. Activities begin with the Hooding Ceremony at the Lied Center, where each graduate is individually recognized. An open house follows at Green Hall. The next day, graduates participate in the time-honored walk down Campanile Hill during the all-university commencement ceremony at Memorial Stadium.
Walk to "Old" Green Hall
The Walk to "Old" Green Hall began in Spring 1978. Nostalgic law students who spent their first two years in "old" Green Hall and moved to a new building in the fall of 1977 persuaded Professor Paul Wilson to lead them back to their original home. The tradition of reminiscing and sharing law school history has continued for more than 45 years.
Diversity in Law Banquet
The Diversity in Law Banquet is an annual event for students, faculty and alumni to celebrate the many contributions diverse communities make to the legal profession.
Bluebook Relays
Each fall, first-year law students participate in the Barber Emerson Bluebook Relays. The competition tests legal research skills learned in the Lawyering program. Working in teams, students locate references in the library and write the citation in correct Bluebook format. The point system rewards speed, accuracy and citation skills.
Pub Night
Students faculty and staff eagerly anticipate Pub Night, an annual fundraiser for the Willow Domestic Violence Center and Jana's Campaign. The Moody Bluebooks, an iconic band of faculty, take center stage to play law-themed covers of well-known hits. Dozens of items are auctioned off for charity. Hosted by Women in Law, the event raises thousands of dollars each year for domestic violence prevention.
Thanksgiving Food Drive
The entire law school participates in the annual Thanksgiving Food Drive, coordinated by the Black Law Students Association. BLSA members solicit contributions from law school faculty, students and staff to provide for Lawrence residents in need.